Excitatory Amino Acids and Second Messenger Systems

The renewal of interest in excitatory amino acids in the 1980s has altered the direction of neurobiology. L-Glutamate, widely regarded as a general perpetu­ ator of nonspecific excitation, has become generally regarded as a widely dis­ tributed and important neurotransmitter in the CNS. In the past three decades evidence has accumulated that excitatory amino acids are involved in many neurological diseases and that pharmacological intervention may offer pros­ pects of novel and more effective therapies. Numerous studies on experimen­ tal animals demonstrate that excitatory amino acid antagonists have anxio­ lytic, antiepileptic and muscle relaxant effects. Particular interest has developed in the possible neuroprotective efficacy of excitatory amino acid receptor antagonists in neurological diseases such as hypoxia/ischemia, hypo­ glycemia, epilepsy, and chronic neurodegenerative disorders (Huntington's, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and AIDS). Thus, the drugs changing neurotransmission mediated by excitatory amino acids possess potential therapeutic value. This volume is part of the Schering Research Foundation Workshop Series. It is the goal of the Schering Research Foundation to promote the asso­ ciation between industrial and basic research. The support and the organiza­ tion of highly qualified symposia belong to the armamentarium by which this purpose is fulfilled, and we are convinced that the workshop "Excitatory Amino Acids and Second Messenger Systems" has contributed to this. Gunter Stock Ursula-F.